Chapter 5, Problem 5.20P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The configurational isomer of the given molecule and number of chiral centers in each molecule are to be determined. Whether the number of configurational isomers equals ${\text{2}}^{\text{n}}$ is to be determined.

Concept introduction:

Configurational isomers of a molecule differ in the configurations at chiral centers in the molecule. If they differ in configuration at all the chiral centers, they are enantiomers. If they differ in some but not all centers, they are diastereomers.

The maximum number of configurational isomers that a molecule with n chiral centers can have is ${\text{2}}^{\text{n}}$.

The actual number can be less than this if one or more of the configurational isomers are meso compound(s).

A meso compound is one that contains multiple chiral centers but is not chiral because it contains a plane of symmetry.